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Can you believe that this is the end of the road for all of us, whether officers, committee chairs, committee members, or members of the 33 clubs within our district for this past year. It has gone by quickly.

The theme this past year was “Rotary – Making a Difference”, and I believe we all lived up to that theme and also our Motto, “Service Above Self”. You helped set the District goals and we achieved same except for Membership. The highlight of the year was chartering a new club. As of June 12, 2018, we have a new club in Harrison. They chartered with 25 members. They are looking forward to a celebration and the date will be announced soon and all are invited. Even though we lost members due to death and relocation, we ended the year in the positive.

We can be proud of our making a difference in our communities as well as globally. We used all our allotted DDF grant money to support district grants as well as for water and sanitation projects in the Dominican Republic and elsewhere. We also for the first time donated 20% of our DDF money to Polio. We can be very proud of these accomplishments completed under the direction of our Foundation committee.

I also was very pleased that we were represented at the Peace Building Conference in Chicago this past month. Our past peace fellow Jean Schaller presented at this conference and served on a panel. The District and the Midland club supported her in representing our district. Also, Jim and Debra Kranz from Cass City spent their holiday vacation helping to build Rotary’s prize-winning float for the Rose Bowl Parade.

I enjoyed every club visit. Every club is unique, and I admire the individuality of each club. I’m happy that clubs do not march to the same tune but ultimately in their uniqueness seem to serve their specific community and the world well, also themselves.

It has been a joy to serve and represent you in Rotary International’s endeavors. I have met so many wonderful people, been exposed to so many new and varied ideals, and made so many new-everlasting Rotary friends. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for letting me have this experience. I will cherish the memories of this year for a lifetime. I leave knowing the District is in good hands with Michael, Tom and Randy ready to serve and take you in new directions. I wish all of you the best in Rotary.